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Dispersed Camping

Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Jackson Island Dispersed Campground, near Spring City, Tennessee, is a laid-back spot for those who enjoy a more rustic camping experience. With no designated sites and a focus on natural beauty, it offers a chance to truly connect with the outdoors.

This area is known for its stunning views and spacious spots right by the water's edge, making it a great place to kick back and enjoy nature. Campers have mentioned the presence of fire pits and concrete pads at most sites, which adds a bit of comfort to your stay. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as some visitors have noted a bit of trash around.

For those looking to explore, the campground is conveniently located near hiking trails and fishing spots. Many campers have enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, especially during the cooler months when it’s less crowded. One visitor remarked, “It was quiet, private, and beautiful,” highlighting the charm of this location.

While amenities are minimal—no drinking water, electric hookups, or restrooms—this spot is pet-friendly and allows for campfires, making it a solid choice for those who want to enjoy a classic camping experience. Just keep an eye on your belongings, as some campers have reported issues with theft when leaving items unattended. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, Jackson Island offers a unique opportunity to unwind in nature.

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Location

Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is located in Tennessee

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.66399157486628 N
84.84558154115012 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Last on 10/2/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Awakening Adventures

Awakening Adventures

22 min away

Riley Creek

Riley Creek

28 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Last on 10/2/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) needs a permit.

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General Info


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Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

9 Reviews

Reviewed Mar. 31, 2025

Not to shabby!

Great view, plenty of spots to set up, great fishing and a surprisingly low amount of bugs!

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Brendan G., March 31, 2025
Reviewed Apr. 14, 2024

Beautiful, but stuff stolen

Beautiful spot, early - mid April plenty of room & privacy.

Left to go on a hike & came back to our chairs & wood being stolen. Disappointing, but also the chance you take when leaving your personal items unattended.

They took 2 bundles of wood, but left us some. Plenty of wood on the ground to use. Felt safe overall.

Sitenot numbered
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Tam E., April 14, 2024
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Tam E., April 14, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 19, 2023

Excellent find

Dispersed camping with a glorious v view. Please pack out what you pack in. Some trash obvious yet cleaner now than past reviews. Camped right on the bank. Fire pits and concrete pads at most sites. Dumpster on site so please use it. Easy to find and private spacious sites available.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Angie A., October 19, 2023
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Angie A., October 19, 2023
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Angie A., October 19, 2023
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Nov. 1, 2022

End of season stay in autumn leaves

We arrived on Oct 30 to find several spaces available, many of which are convenient pull-through spaces. All are right at the waters edge with fire rings. There's trash everywhere; we filled a 10 gal trash bag in a matter of 10 minutes. We've been enjoying our stay but sadly we're informed by a man driving around to be out by Nov 3 as they're closing the site for the season. Luckily this timing is fine for our plans but was a surprise as nothing is mentioned on sites or sign at entrance about this. Beautiful place, peaceful this time of year. Husband caught a bass & dogs enjoyed the shallow edge of the lake at our site. Would stay again!

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Chelsea H., November 1, 2022
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Chelsea H., November 1, 2022
Reviewed Sep. 8, 2022

Traffic

There is so much traffic at all times day and night. It gets pretty aggregating other than that they clean the Porta John a cpl times a week it's pet friendly and you can hang stuff from trees and lines

Siteright side before you go to the back
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Brandon B., September 8, 2022
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Brandon B., September 8, 2022
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Brandon B., September 8, 2022
Reviewed Apr. 3, 2022

Convenient and pretty

I've read reviews elsewhere of this camping area getting crowded and rowdy. We went during a relatively chilly weekend in early April and had no trouble finding a spot. It was quiet, private, and beautiful. I can see however how that may be very different during warmer months.

The campground is very easily accessible and has no facilities other than garbage bins.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Andrew R., April 3, 2022
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Andrew R., April 3, 2022
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Andrew R., April 3, 2022
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jul. 23, 2021

Good when not overcrowded

We went this past summer and had a nice visit. There wasn't too many people but a few weeks later we drove thru and people were packed in like sardines. Just not our style of camping. Seems the locals really come out in droves and packs the place. Have been told that vehicles have been stolen so may want to watch your surroundings depending on the environment at the time. However police did patrol thru the area at night when we were there.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Kimberly P., July 23, 2021
  • Review photo of Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by Kimberly P., July 23, 2021
Reviewed Jul. 17, 2021

Closed by TVA

Arrived to find it closed. No one to talk to or call. Just closed. Same with Rhea Springs.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2021

Very sketchy

Very sketchy park. Vagrants mostly. You wouldn’t be able to leave your site unattended if you want to keep your stuff. Go across to Rhea springs. Nice,safe, free and beautiful.

Sitenot marked
Month of VisitJune

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Jackson Island TVA Camp?

Jackson Island TVA Camp offers basic amenities for dispersed camping. The site has fire rings at most campsites and concrete pads in many areas. Porta-potties are available and cleaned multiple times per week. There's a dumpster on-site for trash disposal. Each site is situated along the water's edge, many offering pull-through access. The campground is pet-friendly and allows hanging items from trees. Beyond these basics, the campground follows a primitive camping model without electricity, running water, or shower facilities.

Where is Jackson Island Campground located in Tennessee?

Jackson Island Campground is located in Spring City, Tennessee. The campground sits on the shoreline of Watts Bar Lake, which is part of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) managed areas. The waterfront property offers beautiful views and lake access. While the exact address isn't specified in available information, it's in the vicinity of Rhea Springs, another camping area in the region.

What do reviews say about Jackson Island TVA Camp?

Jackson Island TVA Camp offers a mixed experience depending on when you visit. The location provides beautiful waterfront sites with excellent views and good fishing opportunities. During off-peak times (early spring, fall), campers enjoy quiet, privacy, and ample space. However, the area can become extremely crowded during peak season with high traffic both day and night. Some visitors note concerns about security, with reports of theft when sites are left unattended. There are also ongoing issues with trash, though recent cleanup efforts have improved conditions.

Is Jackson Island a dispersed camping area?

Yes, Jackson Island is a dispersed camping area managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). As such, it offers a more primitive camping experience with minimal management and facilities. The campground features waterfront sites with fire rings and some concrete pads. Unlike developed campgrounds, sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. This dispersed camping model means visitors should be prepared for variable conditions and bring essential supplies. The area can get quite busy during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended if seeking privacy.